Self-Driving Vehicles

We are heading to a treasure of Victoria's coastline - The Mornington Peninsula. We will be hiring a bus with a driver. Spots are limited. Please follow these two steps to confirm your spot: Step 1: Please RSVP to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please buy your ticket ($99-$119) via Trybooking - [https://www.trybooking.com/DIAHB](https://www.trybooking.com/DIAHB) Payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an **"Unpaid"** status on your RSVP. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. You do not have to message me for the same. I will manually update the meetup payment status closer to the event date if the names on Trybooking and Meetup are the same. Trybooking payments are non-refundable. There is no option to transfer the ticket to a new date. Trybooking payments will be refunded only if the event is cancelled or moved to a new date. Meeting Point: Let's meet in the Corner of Russell and Flinders Street (Let's meet at Federation Square Bus & Coach Pickup Drop-off Zone at 9 AM. We should be back to city around 8 pm. Map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/n8wmR1uA7mPxE37ZA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/n8wmR1uA7mPxE37ZA) This is a rain-or-shine event. Please carry water, and snacks. **Cost:** Bus Ticket (including organizer fee, bus with driver): $99 - Early Bird, $119 - Regular Optional extra costs: Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola, Pt. Leo Estate cellar-door tastings and outdoor gallery of modern sculptures. **Tentative list of locations we will be visiting:** \* **Arthurs Seat**: Amazing view of beaches, Mornington and Bellarine peninsulas, and the CBD of Melbourne, far away. 🚻 \* **Arthurs Seat Eagle (Optional):** Step inside an aerial gondola and be taken on a journey of flight to the highest point of the Mornington Peninsula. Tickets can be purchased on the day. \* **Flinders Blowhole** \- An absolutely stunning place of natural wonder\. A short walk from the parking down the stairs\. \* **London Bridge (Event photo)** \- Natural bridge carved from soft sandstone by thousands of years of wind\, waves\, and water\. 🚻 \* **Cape Schanck** \- Stunning landscapes with unspoilt and wild beaches\. 🚻 **\* Pt. Leo Estate -** Coastal winery offering cellar-door tastings, food, and an outdoor gallery of modern sculptures. Tickets can be purchased on the day for wine tasing and outdoor gallery of modern sculptures 🚻 **\* Mornington Peninsula Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery -** Discover 180+ hand-crafted chocolates, created with care by Belgian and French chocolatiers in the charming seaside village of Flinders on the Mornington Peninsula. 🚻 Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia with more than 42,000 members. We know these group rules won’t suit everybody, and that’s okay—there are many other groups where you might feel more at home. To keep things safe, fun, and positive, we have 8 simple rules for people attending our events. Over the past 9 years, we’ve removed 342 people (around 0.8%) for breaking them—so please read carefully! ❌ Not a dating group – We’re here to make friends and share experiences, not find soulmates. 📵 No phone numbers – You’re welcome to swap social media if you both agree, but please don’t share or ask for phone numbers. Please don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups. 🔞 Our events are only open to people aged 18 and older. 📢 No advertising – Please don’t promote other events, groups, or businesses here. 😅 Don’t be clingy – Give people space to mingle and chat with others too. 🚗 No carpooling – For safety reasons and insurance coverage, we don’t allow carpooling or ride-sharing through the group. 💰 No sales pitches – That means no selling, MLMs, pyramid schemes, or “life-changing mentorships.” Keep it scam-free. By joining an event, you agree to follow these rules. Breaking them means removal from all our groups—no exceptions. Thank you! **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)

You are welcome to our weekly free meditation classes in Wheelers Hill, a lovely venue with surrounding gardens, lake and water lillies . Learn simple and effective ways to help experience the peace in the state of true meditation. Balance your subtle system to deepen your meditation; watch a short video with simple and practical explanations by Sahaja Yoga founder, Shri Mataji. No physical exercises, postures or special clothing required; chairs are provided. For any inquiries, please call Yogesh - 0469311609. Enjoy!

This is a 7.7km loop starting and ending at Ashburton station carpark on the west side of train lines. entrance via Kelvin Grove and Aitchison Ave. This lovely loop walk is on paved and gravel paths through Ferndale Park , Gardiner's Creek and along Anniversary trail. Meet at 5.45pm for a 6pm start. Dinner/Drinks after hike at Fordhams Milk Bar. licenced and good choice of meals available Fordham’s Milk Bar https://share.google/JYcEP7HtEG3YnLoMm

***Thinking about the end of January can stir up a sense of dread.*** Are you worried that 2026 might leave you high and dry? Or are you already bracing yourself — trying to command and control every detail? What if there’s another way? A way that accepts the inevitable storms ahead — and helps you prepare by building your year on rock, not sand. Here are the details for this event: **Anchored and Aware for 2026** Retreat/Workshop by Whole life coaching **Session 1** * Introduction * Seasons in Life * Hero’s Journey * Start Life Mapping **Session 2** * Life Mapping continued * Discover the messages and pathways that no longer serve you * Optional sharing **Session 3** * Focus themes from Life Map into a purpose statement * Articulate your North Star to help guide your decision-making and rhythms on your journey **When**: Saturday 17th January **Where**: South melbourne **Timing**: 3 X 2 hour sessions throughout the day * **There is a $199 investment, includes materials** **If this resonates, [please register your interest](https://forms.gle/fW7MAkse4AeUSN2H7).**

Join us for one hour of beach cleaning, socialising, and generally being a good person. It's a perfect time to head down to clean up the beaches that you love. Meeting Spot: Kerferd Rd Pier When: Every third Saturday, 9am - 10am Please arrive 850am for a 9am start! Bags provided. Please bring your own gloves if you like. Feel free to invite neighbours/family/friends/colleagues, etc to join in and lend a hand as we tidy up our beaches and bay!! 3205 Beach Patrol is a group that meets for One Hour each month to clear rubbish from South Melbourne Beach. Totally voluntary, totally optional, totally local. We meet every THIRD Saturday, same place, same time. Beach Patrol is a chain of volunteer community groups each defined by suburb, post code and t-shirt colour. Starting in 2009, by mid-2015 there were 18 groups running, covering over 50 km of beach across the top of Melbourne's Port Phillip Bay with approx. 1500 volunteers signed up to help keep our beaches clean.

**🚲 Maribyrnong River Social Ride — Exploratory Edition** Sunday 18 January 2026 **Start time**: 10:00am sharp (I won’t wait for stragglers) **Meet from**: 9:45am or earlier **Start/End point**: The Love Cafe next to the Melbourne Skyline Ferris Wheel, which is next to the Exhibition Centre at South Wharf. Hard to miss😀 **🌞 About the Ride** Join us for a fun, friendly, social bicycle adventure tracing the Maribyrnong River , in the west of Melbourne — roughly 30 km return trip, about 2 hours up and 2 hours back, depending on group pace and café temptations. ****### _Before you consider joining this event, read the group rules section at the end_ ###**** This is an exploratory ride. The organiser is not familiar with this part of Melbourne, so expect a spirit of discovery, possible detours, and the occasional “Is it this way?” moment. That’s part of the charm. We’ll aim to stop every 40 minutes or so at cafés (if any appear), or for lunch if we find a good spot. After reaching our turnaround point, we’ll return along the same route back to the Ferris Wheel. **🚴‍♀️ Bike Hire** If you need a bike, Blue Tongue Bike Hire is just over the river from the Exhibition centre, It’s quick, but please allow extra time to sort it out. If you want a pre‑ride coffee, arrive early and enjoy one at Love Café. Hire Info: [Blue Tongue Bikes ](https://bluetonguebikes.com.au/) **🧰 What to Bring** - Water - Sunscreen - Snacks - Helmet - Bike lock - Tyre pump, repair kit, or spare inner tubes - (Optional but wise) Kevlar‑backed tyres — they saved us from puncture chaos last time - (Optional but recommended) RACV Bike Assist — around $24/year via the Arevo bike‑navigation app, handy for transport help, fatigue, or minor repairs **🗺️ Pace & Expectations** This is a relaxed, social ride — but we roll at 10:00am. Please arrive by 9:45am so we can meet, greet, and get moving on time. **🚵‍♀️🚵‍♀️🚵‍♀️Ride Motto**. Our last ride had a great attitude where people looked out for each other, if people were slow or had emergency repairs. This ride would suit people who are the more caring types🥰 **Group Rules and Event Etiquette** **Fitness Requirements**: **Riding:** 10 to 15km/hr Ensure you have adequate fitness, it's unfair for the group to wait extended periods for you. You may be asked to exit the event as a consequence. **Very Fast or Very Slow People** It's a group activity the organiser can't manage the group if people are everywhere, please consider going by yourself, joining faster groups or having adequate fitness. You may be asked to exit the event as a consequence. **Busy People** Best to give yourself some wiggle room, or not attend the event if you have time constraints. Things rarely go to time, especially when having fun. **⚠️+++VERY IMPORTANT+++** **People Who Do A No Show**. This is too common for small group events, there may be people on a waitlist wanting to come on the event and hence very inconsiderate. Remove yourself from the going list at least 24 hours before the event to give people on the waitlist an opportunity. **If you do a No Show you will likely be removed and blocked from the group**. If you remove yourself from the event an hour or two before the event (flaking) you may also be blocked and removed from the group if there is a waitlist, very unfair to those people. **People Not On The Going List** This is a major security concern, **DO NOT TURN UP RANDOMLY**.You will be asked to leave the event unless you have made arrangements with the organiser **PRIOR** to the event. **People Who Are Late** You will be left behind and or removed and blocked from the group as a **No Show.** It is your responsibility to communicate with the organiser if you will be late. It's up to you to catch up. This may not be possible for some events. **Second Chances** Please communicate with the organiser if you do not want to be blocked and removed from the group 🚩**Disclaimer: No Liability & Organiser Indemnity** By participating in this event, you acknowledge and accept full personal responsibility for your own safety, wellbeing, and belongings. The organiser assumes no liability for injury, loss, or damage incurred during the activity. Participation is entirely at your own risk.

Location changed to Botanical Gardens! Weather looks reasonable good on Sunday. Participants are invited to join us for a walk and talk about science, philosophy and technology. There will be a humanist event in the Botanical Gardens afterwards. I believe parking is free far side of the botanical gardens ([near eastern gate B and Tecoma gate C](https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/melbourne-gardens/interactive-map/)) - no longer free everywhere else. **Schedule** **10 am** – Meet outside the Botanic Gardens Visitors Centre (near the Melbourne Observatory Building and the Shrine of Remembrance) **10.30 am –** Venture into the gardens and walk around the outer walkway (anti-clockwise), eventually spiraling inwards towards the lake. **12.30** – Sit somewhere near the lake to have lunch, BYO (note the Terrace Cafe may be closed). **Possible topics:** – Moral realism - a stance independant moral ontology - useful for capturing non-arbitrary moral choice. – Moral anti-realism? – Can AI be fault tolerantly aligned to moral realism? can AI be aligned to fault tolerantly to anti-realism? – Is sentience required for moral reasoning? moral deliberation? Can sentience be a hindrance to moral reasoning? see AI beating humans at Moral Turing Test - [https://www.reddit.com/r/science/comments/1ci798x/gpt4_passes_moral_turing_test_after_a/](https://www.reddit.com/r/science/comments/1ci798x/gpt4_passes_moral_turing_test_after_a/) – AI Safety, automated persuasion, orthogonality thesis – ChatGPT, future directions in AI – How epistemics (inc science) makes progress – Health, wellness and how to live a good life – Metaethics / ethics – Moral progress and indirect normativity – Latest trends in AI – Economic impacts of AGI, automation, unbounded inequality – UBI - Basic income and universal wealth redistribution – Likelihood of future doom or utopia – Human augmentation, hacking human potential – AI interpretability – ChatGPT, Gemini, ClaudeAI – Automated persuasion, AI dark arts – Future directions in AI – Plato’s cave – Fun theory, value theory Nietzsche: "**All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking.** From the process of creative self-discovery one emerges an artist. More often than not, our internal spiritual restoration is accompanied by a physical transformation." Sometimes philosophy discussions feel quite sedentary – hence our experiment to cross pollinate exercise and engaging discussions on philosophy. Exertion of both the mind and body at the same time may lead to a fascinating dynamic. A sedentary lifestyle (and by association, philosophy) has been linked to mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. Ease the anxieties of the armchair philosopher engaging in mental gymnastics with minimal muscle movement – join our raggle-taggle crew of aspiring philosophers walking the talk! Healthy body, healthy mind! Note, bring elemental protection (umbrellas, sunscreen etc)

Are you looking for something different, if so, I would like to invite you to come on a healing journey to discover peace and harmony within yourself and life. If this is of interest to you, the first class is free, as it's an introduction to the explorations of mindfulness/meditation with a spiritual flavour. If you choose to return (no obligation), then a small amount is asked of $5 per class. What a wonderful opportunity to explore your physical, emotional, mental and soul bodies and how they are all inter-related and all can be greatly affected with the stresses and challenges of everyday life. Through engaging with an energetic hygiene process that I facilitate, you will be able to cleanse your energy field on a daily basis. With the event/class there is a variety being presented each week, always a guided meditation, followed by either reflection on self-care through working with a variety of gentle approach resources (which will be given to you to take, if you choose), as well as, listening to different short mindfulness cds. All you need to bring is yourself and a crystal, if you like.

**Collaborate, Share, Talk, Hack, Make, Break, Fix, Enjoy, Learn, Re-use, Contribute** Visitors and newcomers are very welcome, please see https://hackmelbourne.com/newcomer-faq/ for more details. Short walk from Glenferrie train station. Car parking at Hawthorn Town Hall or St Columbs St. Please pay attention to parking signs as the inspectors are always on the job. Bring a laptop and/or project you are working on. There is also a number of group projects that you are welcome to join in. 3D Printing, Laser Cutting, Electronics, Programming, Robotics, Prop Building, Costuming, Milling, Machining, Home Automation and more. The Connected Community Hackerspace (CCHS) is a community workshop, sometimes also known as a makerspace. We are run by members for members and are dedicated to providing facilities, tools and networking for members to achieve their projects. Our members work on personal and group projects. If you are interested in making/hacking join our Discord where like-minded people discuss their projects. See Discord link on our website. hackmelbourne.org Note - not all our members use meetup, so the RSVP's here dont reflect the total numbers.

Join us for a relaxed networking drinks with other couples who value meaningful conversation, intentional living, and want to work on a business or a project together (or already are). This isn’t your average couples’ Meetup. 💡 **Please note:** This event is specifically for couples attending together. RSVPs without a +1 (partner) will be cancelled to keep the balance of the group. 📅 **il Mercato Centrale Melbourne** **📍 Limited to 10 couples** so grab your spot early 🍷**Happy Hour** drink specials from 5:00pm **💬 Conversation Starters** Each time we meet includes a few rotating topics to spark insight and great chats: * A habit that made your life better as a couple * A travel story with a twist (funny, unique, or unexpected) * Something you’re learning right now * A tip on how to work with your partner's personality and communication styles No need to prep, just come ready to connect. We’ll mix up seating halfway through so you meet more than just the couple beside you. **🧠 Who This Is For** * Couples into growth, learning, and intentional living * Those building something together, or who want to * People who want deeper connection, not surface-level chat This isn’t networking. It’s real people and real convos. Just bring yourselves, curiosity, and an open mind. We’ll take care of the rest. **👥 Hosted by Matt & Justine Stuckings** Matt & Justine are the kind of couple who live for deep chats over food, spontaneous adventures, and connecting with people who live life on purpose. Matt’s a 6’4 ex-photographer turned marketer and entrepreneur. He’s into Pickleball, boutique breweries, and discovering weird restaurants and books that make life (and business) better. If it helps him grow or gets him thinking differently, he’s probably already into it. Justine’s a connector at heart. She’s a uni teacher and entrepreneur who loves mentoring, dancing, dark hot chocolate, and surrounding herself with people who think big and care deeply. Together, they host events that feel relaxed but intentional, welcoming but meaningful. They started this event to find more of their people. Curious, kind, growth-minded couples who want more than just small talk.

On what will be a pleasant Sunday, a new ride to Melbourne's inner north **Ride:** A social pace ride to a boutique gelato shop, Miinot Gelato, in Pascoe Vale South and back to town. One or two short hills and we'll wait for everyone at the top. **Speed:** 22 km/h max (easy). **Contact:** Neil Griffiths - 0419 560 409 (text or phone preferred on the day, please) **Route distance**: Approx 31 km returning to Jeff's Shed / Exhibition Centre The route is mostly on cycle paths or lanes with a few local streets https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53707870 \* \* Route may vary from the map on the day **Departure time:** 1:00 pm - plan to be early, please **Things to bring**:- Water, sunscreen, pump, spare tube, tools **\* Photo:** Miinot Gelato (71 Melville Rd, Pascoe Vale South) All riders are riding at their own risk and Melbourne Cycling does not take any responsibility for any injuries or accidents you may have on any of our rides"

Ever wondered how humanity would respond to an asteroid heading for Earth? Or how the world might react to first contact with aliens? Welcome to **The Thought Experiment** — a new kind of meetup where we explore big *“What if…?”* scenarios in a fun but thoughtful way. Each session, we’ll pick one scenario (from global crises to wild sci-fi situations) and work together to imagine solutions, strategies, and possibilities. This is for **curious minds of all kinds** — students, professionals, creatives, or anyone who enjoys thinking differently. Some people might bring research, others just bring imagination. Either way, we’ll brainstorm together and see where the discussion takes us. [Thought Experiment Site](https://thoughtexperiment.au) **We ask everyone to Buy a drink at the venue** **You Need to have Conversational English.** **Format:** * Quick intro to the scenario * Small-group discussions * Share back with the group * Wrap up + (optional) post-discussion drinks For our first meetup, we’ll introduce the format, get to know each other, and jump into a scenario together. ***Story Arc: Apocalypse*** Keywords: Viral Outbreak, Halloween Encore, Zombies **Scenario: Containment Failure** Next Week in the Horrors of Consciousness Series. It began in a private research facility — a corporation working on a cure for everything. Disease. Aging. Even death itself. But something went wrong. A breach. Something escaped. Those exposed don’t die — they change. Cities are falling silent. Denial is policy. We are the last survivors — trapped, desperate, and running out of time. Will we trust each other… or turn on our own? And along the way… there will be twists. Join us this Saturday, 3–5 PM at Oxford Scholar. A small group. Big imagination. No right answers — just curiosity, debate & fun.

In this talk, Sean Hoar will explore how AI assistants can accelerate different stages of software development. From idea generation and prototyping to coding, testing, and debugging, AI tools are transforming how developers work. He’ll provide practical examples of where AI can save time, reduce errors, and help teams focus on higher-level problem-solving. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to integrate AI into their workflow and stay ahead in the evolving tech landscape.

**✅ First class is FREE – only 10 spots available!** Learn real self-defense skills in a small-group setting. No experience needed, open to all adults. 📲 RSVP now and text Jim at **301-326-9146** to confirm—once spots are gone, they’re gone. ## **Free Intro Self-Defense Class – Maryland Systema** Want to learn how to protect yourself while also improving your health, focus, and confidence? Join us for a free first class at **Maryland Systema**, a unique approach to self-defense that blends both physical and mental training. *** ### **Why This Class is Different** Unlike most programs that only teach physical moves, Systema trains your body **and** your mind. You’ll explore: * **Structure** – staying balanced under pressure * **Breathing** – keeping calm and controlling fear * **Relaxation** – avoiding panic and wasted energy * **Movement** – adapting naturally to any situation You’ll also learn to read an attacker’s intentions and respond proportionately—aligned with Maryland’s self-defense laws. *** ### **What You’ll Gain** ✔ Practical skills you can use right away ✔ Better stress control and awareness ✔ Improved strength, mobility, and coordination ✔ Confidence in handling real-world situations *** ### **Class Info** 📍 **Location:** Woodley Gardens Park in the brick building (free parking) 🕒 **Length:** 1.5 hours 👥 **Small Group:** Max 10 students for personalized guidance 👖 **What to Wear:** Comfortable long pants and clothes you can move in 💵 **Cost:** Free for first-time students *** ### **How to Join** RSVP here on Meetup to save your spot, then text Jim at **301-326-9146** to confirm. Spots are limited—once the group fills, we close registration. *** **Maryland Systema** Real-world self-defense training for adults—helping you stay ready, stay calm, and stay safe.

Hello everyone! Who doesn't love Pizza! We'll be meeting at Andy's Pizza in Tyson's Galleria and doing some old-fashioned networking, beer-drinking, and pizza-eating. I guarantee a fun time, or else your pizza is free :) **Location:** Andy's Pizza, Tyson's Galleria, 2001 International Dr, McLean, VA 22102 **Overview:** Join us at AI Innovators Network for our upcoming meetup in Tysons dedicated to exploring the latest trends in Artificial Intelligence. Whether you're an AI enthusiast, a professional, or someone curious about the intersection of technology and AI, this event is perfect for networking, learning, and sharing insights. Connect with like-minded individuals from DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland as we dive deep into the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation driving innovation and progress in Artificial Intelligence.

Discover the path to stress management, life's tranquility, and self-improvement through Heartfulness Meditation. Embrace relaxation, meditation, and emotional detoxification practices to unlock your best self. Join our free sessions every Sunday at 8 AM at VA. Experience the profound benefits of these simple yet powerful practices. Commit to a few months of meditation and witness the transformative impact firsthand. We eagerly await your presence at these enlightening sessions.

Join us for another session of our study group as we dive into the fascinating world of Large Language Models (LLMs) using the book **Build a Large Language Model from Scratch** from Manning. In this session, we will finish **Chapter 7: Fine-tuning to follow instructions**. In the last session, we talked about how to prepare the dataset for instruction fine-tuning and in this session we will perform the fine-tuning and evaluate the model afterwards. This isn't just a lecture! Come ready to ask questions, share insights, and code along. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this is the perfect opportunity to build a strong foundation together. If you plan to work with the code on your own laptop during the session, try and set-up the environment ahead of time (https://github.com/rasbt/LLMs-from-scratch/tree/main/setup). We will be meeting at the North County Governmental Center this time that is across from the Reston public library.

Dive into a transformative experience at our Be Yourself Dance Fitness: Hip hop, Latin dance, African, Bollywood, a FUSION of World Dance! Come feel the vibes!! Awaken Your Spirit. [Come share your love for dance, movement, and spirituality where you will BU & LIVE ALIVE, step outside of your zone, align your chakras through rhythmic expression. Explore the connection between movement and consciousness as we guide you through sound healing sessions and exercises to enhance your spiritual awakening. ](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNYX9RVF)Whether you are new to chakras or a seasoned practitioner, Be Yourself Dance Fitness offers something for everyone. Connect with like-minded individuals in a welcoming environment focused on love, happiness, and self-discovery. This event is perfect for those interested in exploring the intersection of dance, spirituality, and fitness. Let go of inhibitions, unleash your creativity, and elevate your mind, body, and soul. Don't miss this opportunity to embark on a journey towards holistic well-being and self-realization. Bring bottle of Water and plenty of attitude. The Event is Free , However, We accept donations $Cash APP $BU314 Venmo: Wayne-Christopher-8

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun Workshop: How AI Can Work for Your Business** **Wednesday\, January 28 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun – Ashburn** Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword — it’s a practical tool that businesses of all sizes can begin using today. Join **1 Million Cups Loudoun** for a special **workshop-style presentation** led by **Victor Meer of AI Prime** and **Jay Jay Billings of Band Gap AI**, designed to help entrepreneurs understand how AI can realistically support their business operations. This workshop will provide: * A clear, practical overview of what AI actually is * Real-world examples of how businesses are using AI today * Insight into where automation can save time and reduce friction * Guidance on how to start leveraging AI without needing technical expertise Whether you’re AI-curious, overwhelmed by the noise, or ready to explore automation in your business, this session will help you think clearly about where AI fits — and where it doesn’t. As always, coffee, conversation, and community are at the heart of 1 Million Cups Loudoun. ### What Is 1 Million Cups? 1 Million Cups is a national program powered by the Kauffman Foundation that brings together entrepreneurs and community members for weekly conversations that educate, support, and inspire. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Join us on **January 14 at 9:00 AM** for coffee, connection, and a meaningful conversation about reimagining after-school education in Loudoun County. **We look forward to seeing you there.**